‘Help Us, Help You’ campaign responds to the impact of Covid-19 on NHS services

NHS England and NHS Improvement (NHS E/I) with support from Public Health England, are relaunching the ‘Help Us, Help You’ cancer campaign focusing on lung, abdominal, and urological symptoms. 

This campaign is to encourage people with symptoms of cancer to contact their GP practice focusing on certain key signs of cancer. These incude: a cough lasting three weeks or more which is not COVID-19, tummy discomfort or diarrhoea lasting three weeks or more, or seeing blood in pee even just once.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, some members of the public are reluctant to use NHS services, citing concerns about being exposed to the virus and not wanting to be a burden on the NHS.

In addition, there is a lack of awareness for certain signs of cancer, and a need to remind everyone to act on the warning signs of cancer.

NHS Chief Executive of NHS E/I, Amanda Pritchard, said: “We know that thousands of people could be risking their lives by delaying medical attention for cancer symptoms.

“We are open and ready to treat people with potential cancer symptoms. This campaign will remind people of the signs and symptoms to look out for and encourage them to get checked if something isn’t quite right.

“Thanks to the hard work of NHS staff, we are back on track with cancer referrals, diagnosis and treatment.

“It’s incredibly important that people recognise the common symptoms that can signal a cancer diagnosis – and it’s vital that they take action by making an appointment with their GP, that could ultimately save their life.”

Your NHS is here and wants to see you, Help Us Help You.

Visit nhs.uk/cancersymptoms for more information.